The Hornets Dismiss Paulo Pezzolano Following 10 Games and Reappoint Javi Gracia as Manager
Watford Football Club have made the decision to terminate Paulo Pezzolano's tenure after only a brief period and 10 games in control, announcing the reappointment of former boss Javi Gracia as his successor.
It is understood that the Uruguayan coach, who was hired in the spring to replace the interim manager, along with his backroom team, were told not to take training on midweek as rumors about his exit grew on the previous day.
The 40-year-old was called to a meeting where he was named the 11th head coach the club have let go since the beginning of the year 2020.
"The club is delighted to reappoint Javi," stated the club's chief executive. "His passion, guidance and well-defined plan will help us build consistency, togetherness and positive energy.
"We believe many fans who wished Javi had stayed on in the past. With this talented squad, we are certain his know-how and attributes are exactly what we require at this moment."
The returning manager previously led Watford to the FA Cup showpiece for the only other occasion in the club's history in that year, but was dismissed a few matches into the following campaign and last managed at Leeds United in last year.
"For me, the feeling I have right now is that I'm going back home. It was the happiest period of my career," Gracia remarked. "I have fond memories and we have unfinished business here. For us, it's a further important step in our career.
"This is something special for us, and at the same time we are highly motivated for this campaign. If we are united, we are stronger."
The decision to remove Pezzolano comes despite the team's win against Oxford at Vicarage Road on the weekend, which moved them to eleventh place in the second tier after a difficult opening that yielded a handful of points from the initial six matches.
The Uruguayan is reportedly left disappointed by the call to let him go, having led Watford to a undefeated streak of three games that also included a home win over Hull and a tie at Portsmouth, leaving them three points off the promotion playoffs.
The coach arrived soon after the conclusion of last season with a strong record of leading clubs to advancement in La Liga, South America and his home country.
